Man arrested after suspected hammer attack in Redhill flat burglary

An 18-year-old man has been arrested after the occupant of a flat was attacked with what police believe was a hammer in an aggravated burglary in Redhill.

The break-in at the flats known as The Dome on Dome Way, happened at about 1am last Thursday (February 27), when four men forced their way into a flat on an upper floor and attacked the occupant.

The victim, a man in his 20s, suffered head injuries after being struck with what police believe was a hammer. He was taken to hospital for treatment and needed stitches to his injuries.

The flat was also damaged in the break-in but nothing is thought to have been stolen.

Uniformed officers on patrol in the area were quickly on the scene and response officers carried out a thorough search of the area.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Kerry Akehurst said: "We received several calls from residents in connection with this incident and I would like to reassure those people that we are doing all we can to find those responsible.”

Det Con Akehurst said: "We are still in the very early stages of our investigation but we do believe that this was a targeted rather than random occurrence.

"We are currently following up a number of enquiries, but I would urge anyone who was in the area around the time of the incident to contact us, as they may hold information vital to our investigation.”

A Surrey Police spokeswoman speaking last Thursday, said: “This morning, a man was arrested in Reigate on suspicion of aggravated burglary, and remains in police custody at this time.

“Officers from the Reigate and Banstead Safer Neighbourhood Team are assisting detectives with their investigation by carrying out reassurance patrols in the area.”

She added: “Anyone who has information on this incident, or who can assist officers with their investigation, is urged to contact Surrey Police on 101, quoting reference 45140014982. “The independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.”